Suffolk health officials have reported the first death from West Nile virus in the county since 2010.

Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Dr. James Tomarken said the Town of Islip resident, who was over the age of 50, began experiencing symptoms associated with West Nile virus late in August.

The unidentified man was hospitalized in mid-September, and died several days later.

Officials say this is the fourth confirmed case this year.  The other three individuals who were confirmed to have contracted West Nile virus have either recovered or are currently recuperating.

According to officials, two of the individuals were from the Town of Smithtown and one was from the Town of Brookhaven.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. It is estimated that 20 percent of those who become infected will develop clinically noticeable symptoms of West Nile virus disease. Mild symptoms may include fever, headache and body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands.